Contradiction with James 2:13
Genesis 42:18 mentions that Joseph says to his brothers, "this do, and live; for I fear God," expressing mercy and a reverence for God. James 2:13 states, "For he shall have judgment without mercy, that hath shewed no mercy; and mercy rejoiceth against judgment," emphasizing mercy over judgment, which contrasts with Joseph's testing of his brothers before showing mercy.
James 2:13: For he shall have judgment without mercy, that hath shewed no mercy; and mercy rejoiceth against judgment. [rejoiceth: or, glorieth]
Contradiction with 2 Samuel 12:5-6
In Genesis 42:18, Joseph allows his brothers to live after being tested, revealing his fear of God. Conversely, 2 Samuel 12:5-6 shows David condemning the rich man in Nathan's parable to death for stealing a poor man's sheep, demonstrating a harsher judgment.
2 Samuel 12:5-6: And David's anger was greatly kindled against the man; and he said to Nathan, [As] the LORD liveth, the man that hath done this [thing] shall surely die: [shall...: or, is worthy to die, or, is a son of death]
Contradiction with Exodus 34:6-7
Genesis 42:18 features Joseph expressing his fear of God and allowing his brothers to live. In contrast, Exodus 34:6-7 declares that God is "merciful and gracious, longsuffering, and abundant in goodness and truth, keeping mercy for thousands, forgiving iniquity and transgression and sin," suggesting a more direct and abundant mercy compared to Joseph's test.
Exodus 34:6-7: And the LORD passed by before him, and proclaimed, The LORD, The LORD God, merciful and gracious, longsuffering, and abundant in goodness and truth,
Contradiction with Matthew 5:7
Genesis 42:18 suggests cautious mercy as Joseph sends his brothers away with conditions. However, Matthew 5:7 states, "Blessed are the merciful: for they shall obtain mercy," advocating for unconditional mercy without the testing Joseph employs.
Matthew 5:7: Blessed [are] the merciful: for they shall obtain mercy.
Contradiction with Proverbs 21:13
Genesis 42:18 illustrates Joseph giving his brothers a chance to prove their honesty for survival. In contrast, Proverbs 21:13 warns, "Whoso stoppeth his ears at the cry of the poor, he also shall cry himself, but shall not be heard," suggesting a simpler, direct mercy without prerequisites.
Proverbs 21:13: Whoso stoppeth his ears at the cry of the poor, he also shall cry himself, but shall not be heard.
Paradox #1
Genesis 42:18 presents a situation where Joseph, who holds power, tests his brothers after they wronged him. The contradiction could be seen in the idea of using deception or manipulation instead of direct forgiveness or reconciliation. This could conflict with principles of honesty and straightforwardness.